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University of Wisconsin-Madison vs Wellesley College

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

9
University Wins
15
Tied / N/A
22
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Great Lakes
Region
New England
36,902
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

45%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1427
SAT Average
1520
29
ACT Midpoint
33
1380-1520
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$11,603
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$42,103
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$17,354
Average Net Price
$25,496
$4,200
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$4,101
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$8,134
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$27,292
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
16%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
20%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
91%
96%
Retention Rate
97%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$15,643
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
17%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

53%
Female
N/A
59%
White
30%
9%
Hispanic
14%
2%
Black
8%
11%
Asian
26%
0.62
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$61,275
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$69,868
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$73,792
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$20,484
Median Debt
$10,000
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
80%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
240.83%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.78
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.00
8.9%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

Research (Times HE)

#27
World Rank
N/A
74.3
Teaching Score
N/A
77.3
Research Score
N/A
90.6
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI · Public

45% accept 89% grad $73,792 earnings $17,354 net

With an enrollment of nearly 37,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a strong choice for those who thrive in a vibrant, diverse environment. If you’re interested in fields like Business, Biology, or Computer Science, this school has solid programs that cater to your academic interests. The acceptance rate of 45% suggests a competitive atmosphere, but it’s also a place where students can find community and support among their peers.

Looking at outcomes, graduates from Wisconsin-Madison earn an average of $73,792 within ten years of completing their degree. This strong earning potential points to a positive return on investment for students. With a graduation rate of 89%, most students are not just moving through their programs but are also finding pathways to success after college. The affordability is another key factor, with a net price of $17,354, making it accessible for many families.

When it comes to finances, students graduate with a median debt of $20,484, which is manageable for the earnings they can expect. This balance between cost and potential earnings makes it a pragmatic choice for many. Students who tend to thrive here are those who take advantage of the resources available, engage in their studies, and connect with the vibrant campus life in Madison.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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